The Republic of Ireland U17 Women's team made a successful start to their bid to repeat the heroics of last season by winning the first match in the preliminary qualifying series of the UEFA 2010/'11 Championship.

The Republic of Ireland women's U17 side return to action this week-end as they begin their UEFA Championship qualifying campaign in Co. Antrim where they will face Macedonia, Czech Republic and the tournament hosts, Northern Ireland.

Goals from Brian Gill and Ben Cunniffe ensured Athlone Town Under 17s unbeaten start to the season continued on Sunday when they defeated Tolka Rovers by a 2-1 scoreline in the First Round of the Umbro FAI Under 17 Cup on Sunday in Athlone Town Stadium.